Is the 2024 Acura TLX Type S a Good Car? 6 Pros, 3 Cons
Luxury sports sedans remain popular with buyers, and there are plenty to choose from to fit a variety of budgets. The Acura TLX is an appealing entry in the category, especially in its sportier Type S trim. A mid-cycle freshening adds to that appeal, bringing added tech and styling updates while still delivering strong value in the category.
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Shop the 2024 Acura TLX near you
Larger overall than competing compact luxury sedans including the BMW 3 Series and Genesis G70, the TLX offers a bit more room for passengers and gear. Improvements for 2024 include a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster in place of analog gauges and a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen.
Cars.com Senior Research Editor Damon Bell recently got acquainted with an updated TLX in the top Type S trim to see how it stacks up against the competition. Tap the link above to read his expert review; for a quicker look at the highs and lows, read on for six things we like about the 2024 Acura TLX Type S and three things we don’t.
Things We Like
1. Smooth Six
The Type S gets a notable boost in power compared to other TLX trims, with a 355-horsepower, 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 engine in place of the 272-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four in lesser variants. Power is smooth and abundant, and the 10-speed automatic transmission delivers quick and seamless shifts. Several driving modes include Sport and Sport+, which deliver enhanced response without sacrificing smoothness.
2. Suspension Upgrades
An adaptive suspension and 20-inch wheels and tires help distinguish the Type S from the other TLX trims. Even though they result in a somewhat stiffer ride — even in the most relaxed Comfort mode — the payoff is nicely balanced handling. At 4,200 pounds, it’s no track car, but the Type S feels pleasantly nimble and entertaining to drive in the twisties, with the added security of standard all-wheel drive.
3. Digital Displays
The larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen and new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster lend a more modern look to the TLX’s cabin, with crisp graphics and plenty of customizable information. The cluster offers two distinct layouts that display slightly different data depending on which drive mode is chosen.
4. More Standard Tech
Other Type S tech updates for 2024 include a standard 10.5-inch windshield head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. Both are welcome, easy-to-use additions that were previously available only with the Advance Package; they are now only available with the Type S.
5. Front-Seat Room
The upscale cabin offers adequate if not exactly generous room for front-seat passengers, with our 6-foot-6-inch editor finding just enough room behind the wheel. The Type S’s standard sport seats are essentially the same as those found in the other trims. They are supportive enough, but their bottom cushion is firmer than those in some competing models and the side bolsters can be confining.
6. Interior Quality
Inside, the cabin presents an upscale and modern look, even if the overall appearance and ambiance aren’t quite up to the standards of the 3 Series or G70. Impressive materials and solid assembly quality are appropriate for the category, aided by details like satin metal-finish trim, configurable lighting and a flat-bottomed steering wheel with contrast stitching.
More From Cars.com:
- 2024 Acura TLX: More Tech, Steeper Starting Price
- 2024 Acura TLX Up Close: Styling Tweaks and New Screens
- 2023 Acura TLX Gets New Type S PMC Edition, New Price
- Research the Acura TLX
- Find Your Next Car
Things We Don’t Like
1. Touchpad Controller
Acura has chosen to stick with a console-mounted touchpad control interface for the TLX’s infotainment system rather than a more conventional touchscreen. The touchpad is designed to be used without taking your eyes off the road, but it’s awkward and distracting to use underway. We’d much prefer a traditional touchscreen.
2. Rear-Seat Room
Unfortunately, the TLX’s larger size does not translate into significantly improved backseat room. Rear legroom is restricted, particularly when the front seats are adjusted for taller passengers. The stylish profile doesn’t help, either, with a sloping rear roofline that cuts into rear headroom.
3. Option Pricing
With a starting price of $58,195 (including destination), the TLX Type S offers decent value, even after a reasonable $1,250 price hike for 2024 to help cover additional standard features. But adding a heated steering wheel will cost another $510, and any color other than Lunar Silver Metallic will set you back an additional $600.
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